The Evaluation of Determinants of Early Postpartum Low Mood: the Importance of Parity and Inter-Pregnancy Interval

Abstract

Objectives: The aim of this study is to determine the extent of early postpartum low mood and possible relevant variables in our population. Study design: Depressive symptoms were examined in a sample of 85 women in the first week of postpartum period using Beck Depression Inventory (BDI). The relevant sociodemographic variables were rested by multiple logistic regression analysis. Results: The rate of postpartum low mood (BDI score >10) was found 35.2%. High parity, long marriage period and low education level were all significantly associated with low mood in the postpartum first week. When logistic regression analysis was used to eliminate confounding effect of the parameters; grandmultiparity, short inter-pregnancy interval and low educational level were found to have important effect on postpartum low mood. Conclusion: Pregnant women with risk factors for postpartum low mood such as grandmultiparity, short inter-pregnancy interval and low educational level should be identified early during antenatal period. Educational and social support should be given to those in such a risk. We believe that effective family planning programs and improvement of women's educational level are important preventive factors for postpartum low mood and subsequently developing depression. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.